Let’s raise a cup to not going to Court!

And so begins the celebration of Mediation, Collaboration and Arbitration as the positive means of resolving the most important and the most sensitive issues in our lives. As a family lawyer who is trained in Collaborative Law also, I hope that this year’s showcasing of all things non-Court related will reach an even wider audience as the future is DR shaped.

This year’s promotion of alternatives to Court action is centred on putting children’s needs first. Very few of us can afford the legal expense of lengthy Court battles, and even fewer of us relish the stress associated with litigious wranglings, especially where children are involved.

Collaborative Law is all about sitting down (preferably with a hot beverage and some biscuits); talking, and resolving any family related issues which are important to you. Lawyers are there to advise and guide, and steer you towards a result which fits in with the law, but you remain in control of the experience. You set the agenda for each discussion. For instance, if there are problems surrounding contact between a child and his/her parent, those issues can be put at the top of the “to do” list, and that list will be done, even if it takes another meeting for the problem solving to fully develop.

Behind the success of the Collaborative process is the common bond of you, and your lawyers, all working together, with the one goal of achieving a healthy, workable outcome for you and your family.

Do give me a call on 01903 229903 and I will be happy to discuss the DR options available to you at Bennett Griffin, including whether the Collaborative approach would suit you and your family. The coffee, tea and digestives are ready and waiting.

Article by Jackie Mensah, Associate Solicitor and Collaborative Lawyer. Jackie is also accredited by Resolution, an organisation committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes.

The information contained in this article is for general guidance only and is not intended to be legal advice. Professional advice should always be taken on the application of the law in any particular situation.